What is the Difference Between Earthenware, Stoneware and Porcelain?

If we look around a typical American kitchen what will we find?
Appliances like a stove, a fridge, and a dishwasher, sure...but
what about in the cupboard? You will probably see lots of bowls,
mugs, plates, and cups. Pretty designs and various shapes, but
have you ever stopped to consider what they are made out of?
Plastic in the "more economical" kitchens perhaps, but most are
made out of three main materials: earthenware, stoneware, and
porcelain. We may have heard of these materials before...but
what are they? We will be exploring the differences between
these three materials in this article.

Earthenware
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Earthenware is what is known as a "low-fired" clay. This means
that it is fired at a low temperature (usually around'15 degrees
Fahrenheit). Made from a white and porous clay, it is sometimes
called "ceramics" or "ceramic ware".

Stoneware
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Stoneware is a "high-fired" clay, and as a result, is much stronger.
It is fired at about 2185 degrees Fahrenheit, and becomes vitreous
(i.e.: having the nature of glass). After firing it becomes sturdy and
chip-resistant.

Porcelain
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Porcelain is made from a number of materials. A pale clay
(such as china white) is the main material. Other ingredients, such as
feldspar, granite, and glass, are then ground and added to the clay.
Once enough water is added to make the mixture workable, it is fired
in a bisque kiln at a moderate temperature. Next comes a glazing and
a "high-temperature" firing. The result is a piece of pottery that is
delicate and translucent.

Telling the Difference
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With this bit of a background on what makes them different, how
do we tell them apart? Here's the breakdown:

1) Is it porcelain? The first thing to keep in mind is that porcelain
is translucent, while stoneware and earthenware are not. Hold the
item up to the light. Can you see the light shining through? If so, t
hen it is porcelain.

2) If you have come this far, you know it's either stoneware or
earthenware. What's the next test? How heavy is the item? If it's
 pretty heavy for its size, then it's most likely stoneware.

3) If the piece looks like hand-made pottery, then it is stoneware.
Stoneware, unlike earthenware, will have a texture to it.

4) Does the item you are holding have a chip in it? If so, take a
look at it. Is it very white and "chalky" looking? Can you scrape
off more material with your fingernail? If so, it's probably earthenware.
We say this because earthenware, when fired, has a white, chalky
look. Stoneware, on the other hand, has a darker, textured look.

5) Is any part of the item is unglazed, see if there is textured clay
showing through. If so, it's stoneware.

Conclusion
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Did you enjoy this little journey into the world of dinner set materials.
We now know that porcelain, earthenware, and stoneware are the
three main options.

 Bobby A. Spider